From the Heart

“If Christ calls and speaks, say ‘yes’ to Him right now,” said Dr. David Hailey today in Worship at Hayes Barton Baptist Church.  Two responded to the call and joined.  Knowing that I planned on writing this story about today’s person, I paid particular attention to Dr. Hailey’s words.  Because the invitation is such a tradition at Hayes Barton Baptist Church, it can be taken for granted if heard Sunday upon Sunday.  But for those who hear and listen and are at a point of decision, it can be an emotional appeal, one heard when one is ready. So goes the story today….

Debra Barrier attended Worship at Hayes Barton Baptist Church for many years before joining.  She recalls she would sit with Mrs. Helen Cashwell who would often say, “You know, it’s about time for you to join.”  When the time finally came one 2004 Sunday, Debra says “the Spirit just came over me.”

Reflecting on responding to the invitation, Debra says, “I think it is a combination of things from the sermon to a feeling in your heart.  There is a desire that it is something you’ve got to do and want to do.  You know it when it’s the right time.  The Holy Spirit comes in and overwhelms.”

Hearing a story like this reminds us of what responding to Christ’s call is all about.  It isn’t in the big events that happen in the life of a church that define the church as much as it is what happens in the hearts of a church’s members.  When the hearts of a church’s members are overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit, wonderful and joyous things happen.

So it is with Debra as a member of Hayes Barton Baptist Church.  Debra is involved in  activities that she accurately describes as “in reach.”  She is known for taking meticulous notes in both the Danielson Sunday School Class and as secretary of the Diaconate.  She is co-chair of the food service committee with Mary Clyde Waters and one of her claims to fame is her chicken salad (“The secret is Hellmann’s,” she shares.).  She spends a lot of time at church, four nights this past week, working on many church projects, not because she has to but because she wants to. 

“Hayes Barton Baptist Church is a second home to me.  I enjoy the people,” shares Debra.  “It is a place of joy, a place to renew self.  It has kind people who listen and help, who are genuinely gracious and loving.”

Debra obviously fits right in with the type of people she describes.  As the person who coordinates many of the receptions in the church, she, along with Audrey Lassiter and Kathy Teague, make Hayes Barton Baptist Church a church that feels welcoming and hospitable.  And she is most hospitable and gracious when conversation turns to the work that goes into putting on the many events held at the church.  “When we did, for example, four receptions…two ordinations, a wedding, and a retirement… in the last four months, we all worked together and had fun,” says Debra.  “Everyone enjoys serving in this way.  Everyone has their own gifts to share.  John Cashwell puts up with all of the women in the group.  And Wilton Lassiter and Val Chavis are absolutely indispensible.”

When moving from “in reach” in the church to “in reach” into self, Debra moves to discussing her experiences with Companions in Christ.  “That was the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me,” says Debra, “It means so much to have a group that has bonded together.  We love the Lord. We get together and pray.  We learn and grow spiritually.”

Although only a member since 2004, Debra values the heritage of Hayes Barton Baptist Church.  “It was founded by strong members who had a vision for the church, and the vision is still here today.  It has kept on through hardship and has been made stronger by hardship.”

Of the future, Debra hopes for continued growth.  “I hope that our outreach will grow further and expand into more areas,” says Debra.  “I hope we bring more people in to experience traditions like Hanging of the Greens, my favorite, and Easter.”

When talking with Debra about Hayes Barton Baptist Church, you hear a clarity and joy that comes straight from her heart.  That same heart that had a feeling come over it one Sunday in 2004.  That same heart that is one of many which help define Hayes Barton Baptist Church today.  After all, it isn’t in the big events that happen in the life of a church that define the church as much as it is what happens in the hearts of a church’s members.  Like Debra’s.